photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

Lawrence school board members meet on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026.

Lawrence school board members on Tuesday approved services for replacing a boiler at Billy Mills Middle School.

As the Journal-World reported, the replacement was needed after one of the school’s two boilers failed. The lowest bid to replace the boiler was from Kruse Service LLC in the amount of $74,839. A 10% contingency of $7,483 is also requested for any unforeseen circumstances, with the total project cost of $82,322.

The two boilers are both original to the construction of Billy Mills in 2007.

As the Journal-World reported, the school district has identified $73.9 million in deferred maintenance and facilities needs but lacks enough current funding to address them all. The figure was calculated in 2025, and it’s based on findings from multiple district studies completed on its total of 23 facilities, including athletic and performing arts spaces, and verified by outside consultants.

IN OTHER BUSINESS, BOARD MEMBERS:

• Heard a presentation from staff with updates and highlights from the school district’s visual and performing arts education programs for students.

• Approved an agreement for the AllOne Employee Assistance Program totaling $39,990. The program offers district employees a range of support services and resources, such as helping with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and work-life balance support. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas will reimburse the district for the full cost of the program as part of its wellness benefit.